Monday, August 17, 2015

Lizard Lake Fire Closes Road To Port Renfrew

The fire that has stopped traffic on the Pacific Marine Road is now estimated to cover 250 hectares and is said to be 20% contained. The fire is located on steep slopes with slash and loose debris.The picture above shows the type of fuel feeding this fire which are piles of very dry slash. Slash piles that have sat for long periods of time will contain very little moisture in the lower pieces. Once on fire the heat from each piece radiates heat. The amount of water necessary to put this type of fire out would be enormous.The Pacific Marine Road will remain closed in the interest of public safety, Officials will be assessing the situation and will be determining when the road can open again. Highway 14 to Port Renfrew is not affected by this closure, however Lizard Lake and Fairy Lake campsites are closed.These aerial photos show the extend of the smoke generated by this fast burning fire which was 5 hectares when first reported on Aug. 11. The smoke has resulted in air quality advisories as far away as Duncan.